Genetic Variants that Influence Performance on the Wingate Anaerobic Test: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Anaerobic performance is decisive in many sports. The Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT) is the most widely used test for the assessment of anaerobic performance to date. Performance in this test is influenced by many variables, including genetics. The aim of this review is to analyze the genes related to WAnT performance. A detailed search of four databases (Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Library) was conducted until February 2022. This literature search was implemented according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. Nine eligible studies were selected from the 153 records identified. 3 articles for the ACTN3 gene, 2 for AMPD, one combined ACTN3 and AMPD, 1 article each for PPARA, UCP2 and MCT1. The genes ACTN3 and AMPD seem to report contradictory literature regarding its influence on WAnT peak power (PP), mean power and fatigue index. The MCT1 gene seems to have no influence, and the PPARA and UCP2 genes seem to have a positive relationship with PP.